Elephanta Caves
Elephanta is a magnificent island of India, which rightfully deserves to be visited by tourists. There are many centuries-old architectural monuments on its territory, which are very important for the history of the state.
The whole temple complex of cave structures, inside which there are huge sculptures, has a rather impressive view. The main structure in the sacred building is a large five-meter Shiva, which has three heads. This architectural creation presents the Creator, the Preservers and the Destroyer. The famous "Caves of Shiva" among the Elephant Island, which are carved into the rock, are a kind of complex that is entirely dedicated to the god Shiva.
The island got its name due to the Portuguese sailing by, who saw on this land a huge elephant figure that was carved out of a monolith. These actions took place in the 16th century, but nowadays the figure of a felled elephant is displayed in Mumbai, in the walls of one of the museums.
It takes about an hour to get to Elephant Island. Along the way, you will not have to be bored in this area, because you can admire the beauty of the approaching land, which is generously endowed with lush tropical greenery. Mooring at the pier, you will have an exciting walking tour to the temple building. The seascapes that are the immediate companions are simply fascinating. There are also local merchants on the road offering various souvenirs from stone, bronze, and copper. Masters of India have long been famous for such editions. Tourists are welcome at local cafes where you can have a snack. If you don't want to walk, you can use the local mini-train, which looks so much like a toy from childhood.
Having overcome this fascinating path, you will find yourself at the walls of a magnificent building of ancient monks, which is completely dedicated to the god Shiva.
The temple, which is based on seven caves, welcomes its guests with a colonnade, as well as huge halls that follow it. The pillars from the stone that strengthen the vault are decorated with carvings. The halls of the temple are decorated with various sculptures and bas-reliefs depicting Shiva. Of course, the most basic sculpture of the entire temple complex is a 5-meter bust of Shiva, which is represented by three faces.
This cave temple complex on the island of Elephanta has become world famous among tourists. In 1987, the Elephant complex was added to the UNESCO list. You can visit it every day except Mondays.
